Wellspring Co-op FAQs

How do I register for classes?

All new families who are interested in joining our co-op, will be placed on our Waiting List. Once we have your contact information, we will be able to reach you and let you know of the next upcoming meet-and-greet. We ask all interested families to come meet with members of Wellspring's leadership team to hear about our program before joining to make sure they understand how we operate, learn about class offerings and fees, and to have the chance to ask any questions of us right on the spot.

​

Who can participate in co-op classes?

Classes are available for homeschoolers ages 4 through high school age. You must be considered a home schooled student in order to participate.

When and where do Wellspring's co-op classes take place?

Co-op classes are held on Monday afternoons from 1:00 to 4:00. We meet at the First United Methodist Church located at the intersection of Main Street and Lancaster Ave. in Richmond. Classes take place in the Multi-Ministry building behind the church.

Do we have to take classes all three hours?

Yes, students should register for all three hours of classes.

​

How long is a co-op semester?
A co-op semester is 12 weeks long. For specific beginning and ending dates, see the Co-op Calendar. Registration for the upcoming semester takes place in May and early January.

Is Wellspring a school?

No. Wellspring's co-op classes are not a replacement for your academic homeschooling efforts and are geared toward enrichment only. We lean toward choosing classes that homeschool parents can't (or don't want to) do at home. Messy art projects, science experiments, and PE are just a few of the classes that are regularly in our line-up. For a list of specific class descriptions, visit the Co-op Class Descriptions page. All co-op classes are taught by parent volunteers.

Is Wellspring a Christian Co-op?
Wellspring Homeschool Community is a Christian-run organization that embraces Biblical principles, looking to God to lead and guide as our community grows. We do not limit our membership to those who hold to the same beliefs, nor is it our goal to force these beliefs on others, but we want to be open in letting families know the position from which we come. We ask that, while attending Wellspring functions, participants be respectful of this position in behavior, speech, and dress. Please click here for our Statement of Beliefs.

How do I know if classes are cancelled due to inclement weather?
Delays, cancellations, and last minute information are posted on our UPDATES page. Please check the UPDATES page before heading to any Wellspring function.

What do I do if I have to miss a week of co-op?
Since every parent fulfills a volunteer position each week, it is very important that you let us know if you need to miss co-op. We have made this very easy for you. Simply email us at: gottamisscoop@wellspringhomeschool.com and let us know.

I have been on the new family list for some time now. Why am I not able to join and how soon do you see it opening up to new families?
Wellspring must consider many facets before admitting new families: student-teacher ratios, fire codes, building size, various ages of a family, enough teachers willing to teach. Sometimes we may have openings that simply won't work with your family dynamics. All new families admitted in are chosen in a fair, logistical manner. If you have any questions, you may email us.

My child is 11, but likes the classes offered to 12 and 13 year olds better. (Or is very mature for her age or has friends in a different age group) Can she take classes with a different age group?
In order to ensure space for all of our families, we ask that you only enroll your child in her own age group's classes. Because we are a social co-op, not an academic one, we require students to be placed in the classes based on the age group they fit in as of Sep 1.

Can I drop my child off for co-op classes? If not, what will I do for three hours?
No. Wellspring is not a drop-off co-op. Since our classes are taught by parent volunteers and helpers, everyone's help is needed during co-op hours. This is in keeping with the spirit of a cooperative. However, every parent will have some downtime during co-op, depending on whether you teach or not. Since teachers take time at home to prepare, they are required to work only their one hour of teaching. Those not teaching must assist in classes or perform other jobs during co-op for two hours.

Can I register other children besides my own?
Because each family is required to sign a waiver of liability, you may register only for children of which you are parent or legal guardian. You also are required to fulfill volunteer responsibilities (two hours of helping or one hour of teaching) for your own family. You may help transport other children but each family is required to meet their own volunteer requirements.

How much does it cost?

Cost breakdown:

Each age group carries its own fee. It covers all three hours of co-op.

Ages 4-11 costs $45​ per student

Ages 12/13 costs $55 per student

Ages 14 and up costs $65 per student

Each family must also pay a $60 administrative fee each semester which covers the costs of our facility usage, bookkeeping services , liability insurance, web hosting, and online presence.